Forensic Housing Peer Support Specialist

Agency Profile: Spectrum Health & Human Services respectfully partners with adults, children, and families as they recover from behavioral, emotional, mental health and/or substance related disorders by offering individualized and meaningful opportunities of hope, empowerment and support to achieve self-defined improvements in their quality of life.

Full-time: 31 East Main Street, Rochester, NY

SUMMARY OF POSITION FUNCTION: 

The Forensic Housing Peer Specialist uses lived experience with incarceration, successful reintegration and/or the Behavioral Health System to provide mentorship, support, and advocacy to individuals who were formerly incarcerated at NYS Correctional Facilities. The Peer Specialist helps clients navigate resources, overcome barriers and build a stable healthy life after being released into the community.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES: 

• Knowledge and demonstration of agency core values in day-to-day activities
• Assist individuals with their Daily Living Skills
• Assist with home visits to client residence
• Provide engagement and support for individuals experiencing social, emotional, medical, developmental, financial, and substance use challenges in their homes and/or communities. 
• Provide education, peer counseling, and assist with modeling effective coping skills.
• Work with care coordinators and other community providers 
• Self-advocacy, self-efficacy, and empowerment 
• Promote advocacy on behalf of individuals and support self-advocacy
• Assist in the development of and utilization of self-help tools if applicable.
• Sharing personal experiences to build rapport inspires hope 
• Facilitate or co-facilitate peer support groups, workshops or educational sessions.
• Collaborate with Legal entities such as parole/probation officers, re-entry coordinator, court systems, Department of Social Services, etc. to assist with successful transitions.
• Assist individual in obtaining vocational and employment opportunities
• Provide Critical Time Support upon immediate release from incarceration 
• Build and maintain community connections and natural supports

SKILLS/COMPETENCIES:

• Proficient in the use of computer software such as MS Word, Excel, Power Point, Desktop Publishing, Outlook, etc. 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Current NYCPS Certified Peer Specialists Credential or CRPA Certified Recovery Peer Advocate or working towards obtaining it
• High School Diploma or GED

EXPERIENCE:

• Preferred One-year work related system
• Utilization of Electronic Data Systems
• Lived experience in the Criminal Justice System and/or Behavioral Health System.
• Must possess a Valid Drivers License and a vehicle with an acceptable driving record.

COMPENSATION: $17.46/hr - $22.26/hr